The Mukarara Fresh Produce Market in Kirinyaga County is nearing completion, with construction now at 90 percent.
The Sh55 million facility under the government’s Economic Stimulus Program (ESP) is part of a broader initiative aimed at improving market infrastructure, enhancing trade conditions, and supporting local economies across the region.
Once complete, the modern facility is expected to transform the trading environment for hundreds of small-scale traders in Gichugu who have long operated in open-air and often unsanitary conditions.
The new market is designed to provide a safe, organized, and hygienic space that meets current public health and business standards.
Among its key features is an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub, which is intended to empower youths to venture into digital jobs and e-commerce.
The hub is expected to bridge the gap between traditional trading and emerging online marketplaces, enabling youth to expand their businesses beyond physical boundaries.
In recognition of the needs of women traders, the market is also designed to include a dedicated mother’s room to support lactating mothers, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive working environment.
In bid to address the persistent challenge of post-harvest losses, the facility will be equipped with a cold storage unit. This is expected to significantly reduce spoilage of perishable goods, thereby improving traders’ earnings and ensuring a more stable supply of fresh produce to consumers.
Speaking during an inspection tour of development projects in the region, Deputy President, Professor Kithure Kindiki, called for the speedy completion of the remaining works, noting that delays would hinder traders from benefiting from the improved infrastructure.
The DP emphasized that timely delivery of the project would not only boost local trade but also contribute to job creation and regional economic growth.
He said a similar market was being constructed in Kianyaga and has reached approximately 30 percent completion expressing confidence that once the facilities are operationalized, they will strengthen the county’s agricultural value chain and provide traders with better working conditions.
“Plans are also in place to construct two additional markets within Gichugu Constituency, specifically in Mbiri and Mururi. Each of the proposed projects is estimated to cost Sh70 million and is expected to further expand access to structured and modern trading spaces,” Kindiki said.
Kirinyaga Deputy Governor David Githanda said the County government will continue working closely with the National Government for development’s sake.
By Mutai Kipng’etich
